[Feature Request] Add i18n/localization support for CLI interface
Resolved 💬 3 comments Opened May 8, 2026 by zhuangqycn Closed May 11, 2026
Problem Description
Claude Code CLI currently displays all interface text in English only, including:
/helpcommand descriptions/contextreports- Command auto-completion hints
- Error/status messages
The existing language setting in settings.json only affects AI conversation responses, not the CLI interface itself.
Current Behavior
// settings.json
{
"language": "chinese" // Only affects AI replies, not CLI UI
}
Users who are not fluent in English face a barrier when navigating the CLI interface.
Proposed Solution
Add internationalization (i18n) support to the CLI:
- Extract UI strings into external locale files (e.g.,
en.json,zh-CN.json,ja.json) - Add a
localeoruiLanguagesetting insettings.json - Allow community contributions for translations
Use Case
Many developers worldwide use Claude Code but may not be native English speakers. Having localized interface text would:
- Improve accessibility for non-English users
- Reduce the learning curve for new users
- Align with the global reach of Claude as an AI assistant
Additional Context
- The
claude.exeis compiled as a single executable (~244MB) - UI strings appear to be hardcoded rather than externalized
- Similar tools like VS Code have robust localization support
Workaround
Currently, users must rely on AI assistance to translate/explain unfamiliar interface text.
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Thank you for considering this feature!
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